Daijiworld Media Network – New York
New York, Jul 9: Chelsea’s new Brazilian signing Joao Pedro made a sensational full debut, netting twice to lead the Premier League side to a 2-0 victory over Fluminense on Tuesday, booking a place in the final of the 32-team Club World Cup.
Playing at the packed MetLife Stadium near New York City, the 23-year-old striker opened the scoring in the 18th minute and added another just before the hour mark, delivering a composed and clinical performance against his former club.
Pedro, who joined Chelsea from Brighton for a reported £60 million last week, opted not to celebrate either goal as a mark of respect for Fluminense, where he began his professional career. His brace sets up a blockbuster final against either Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain on Sunday.
"It’s a great achievement. We’re happy to reach the final," said Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca. "Now it’s the last game of the season and hopefully we can win the tournament."
Fluminense, led by 40-year-old former Chelsea defender Thiago Silva, saw their impressive run end despite early tournament wins over Inter Milan and Al-Hilal. Coach Renato Portaluppi said, "We leave with our heads held high. It was a wonderful tournament."
The match saw a disallowed Fluminense penalty after a VAR review and a late injury scare for Chelsea’s Moises Caicedo, who limped off near full-time. But the night belonged to Joao Pedro, whose debut heroics pushed Chelsea within touching distance of global silverware.